More than 44,000 workers received compensation through the Workers Protection Programme.
Dubai: The UAE’s worker protection schemes provided more than Dh832 million in compensation during the first half of 2026, as authorities continued efforts to safeguard labour rights, strengthen workers’ financial security and promote workplace wellbeing.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) said more than 44,000 workers benefited from the Workers Protection Programme, receiving over Dh320 million in compensation by the end of June. Separately, the Unemployment Insurance Scheme paid more than Dh512 million to workers who lost their jobs between the beginning of 2024 and the end of the first half of 2026.
The ministry said the figures reflect its efforts to develop a safe, stable and sustainable labour market while protecting workers’ financial entitlements and enhancing their quality of life.
Positive results
Dalal Alshehhi, Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Protection at MoHRE, said the latest figures highlight the ministry’s commitment to creating a work environment that safeguards employees’ rights while maintaining a fair balance with employers’ interests.
“The positive results achieved in the first half of 2026 reflect the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation’s commitment to creating a safe, stable and sustainable work environment,” she said.
She added that the ministry’s strategy centres on strengthening cooperation with federal and local government bodies and the private sector to improve compliance with labour laws and further enhance worker protection.
Mega celebrations
The ministry said around 800,000 workers participated in celebrations held at more than 60 locations across the UAE during the first half of the year. Organised in cooperation with government and private-sector partners, the events aimed to promote social inclusion and worker wellbeing while marking national occasions and holidays.
Awareness programmes
MoHRE also reported progress in its worker awareness initiatives, which are delivered in 17 languages.
All targeted workers completed mandatory guidance programmes, while more than 1.3 million workers benefited from specialised awareness sessions aimed at familiarising them with their rights, responsibilities and workplace regulations.
The ministry said the figures highlight the importance of cooperation with private-sector companies in promoting social responsibility and compliance with worker protection standards.
Its digital and field inspection systems also supported the implementation of the Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy, which runs from June 15 to September 15.
Under the policy, more than 12,000 rest stations are being provided for delivery riders during the summer period, giving workers designated spaces to rest and recover from high temperatures.
Labour accommodation
Worker welfare has also been supported through improved standards for labour accommodation.
The number of accommodation facilities registered under MoHRE’s Labour Accommodation System exceeded 2,800 by the end of June. Together, these facilities house around two million workers and are required to meet standards covering comfort, health and safety.
Alshehhi said the results from the first half of 2026 demonstrate the effectiveness of the UAE’s comprehensive approach to worker protection and support the country’s broader objectives under the “We the UAE 2031” vision.
Key figures
- More than Dh320 million paid to over 44,000 workers through the Workers Protection Programme.
- More than Dh512 million paid under the Unemployment Insurance Scheme between 2024 and the first half of 2026.
- Around 800,000 workers participated in celebrations held at more than 60 locations across the UAE during H1 2026.
- More than 1.3 million workers benefited from specialised awareness programmes.
- 100 per cent of targeted workers completed mandatory guidance courses.
- Worker awareness programmes are available in 17 languages.
- More than 12,000 rest stations are planned for delivery riders during the summer heat-stress period.
- More than 2,800 labour accommodation facilities are registered with MoHRE.
- Around two million workers are housed in facilities that meet health, safety and comfort standards.
